Securing Chimaek Supply in Korea

The recent meeting between Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, right, Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-yong, left, and Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung Euisun at a Seoul fried chicken shop (Kkanbu Chicken) offers a glimpse into the business culture of South Korea. Per Jung Han-kook, Hwang kyu-rag, and Yoo Ji-han of The Chosun Daily:

NVIDIA chose Kkanbu Chicken as the meeting venue, considering the meaning of “kkanbu,” a Korean slang term for close friends or partners. Huang told reporters outside the restaurant, “I really love chicken and beer. I especially enjoy sharing them with friends. That’s why I think ‘kkanbu’ is the perfect place.” Popularized globally by the Netflix drama Squid Game with the line, “We’re kkanbu, right?” the term refers to close friends, colleagues, or partners. Industry insiders speculated the gathering symbolized the formation of an “AI kkanbu” alliance among the three.

Forging a successful industrial partnership in South Korea requires more than technical excellence; it requires investment in social capital. Whether over a formal dinner or Chimaek, building a human connection remains the most effective way to secure long-term commitment in a competitive global market.